The Best Places For Afternoon Tea In Edinburgh

Afternoon tea is one of those refined traditions that is synonymous with Britain. As a popular ‘go-to’ for special occasions, we had Mother’s Day in mind when thinking of our favourite places to enjoy this indulgent treat.

Of course, afternoon tea isn’t just about the food but also about the experience. Pair Edinburgh’s growing food scene together with its stunning architecture and it’s no surprise that the Scottish capital has some fantastic afternoon tea on offer. Whether you’re looking for stunning surroundings, traditional treats or a modern twist, one of our top-5 favourites is sure to hit the spot.

1. Colonnades at The Signet Library

Photo: Heritage Portfolio

The Signet Library is the home of The Society of Writers to Her Majesty’s Signet, a prestigious legal association. The Colonnades part of the library is open to the public and is an elegant venue where you can enjoy one of Edinburgh’sfinest afternoon teas. The food is made with seasonal ingredients and a selection of decadent cakes are served on bespoke silver stands. Their alternating menu includes the Colonnades’ own Signet Blend tea as well as some refined twists on the classics, such as Haggis, Neeps & Tattie Pies and Pink Grapefruit Posset.

2. Eteaket

Photo: Eteaket

This one’s for the tea aficionados. Eteaket is Edinburgh’s independent tea boutique and only tea concept-store. The founders are loose-leaf tea experts and their ‘proper tea’ philosophy is mirrored in their knowledgable service and extensive menu. They even have some fantastic tea-making gift sets on offer for Mother’s Day.

This is an unpretentious afternoon tea in cozy surroundings with a laid-back atmosphere. There are dozens of ethically sourced teas on offer as well as a menu of tea-inspired cocktails, like their Earl Grey G&T. With sweet and savoury options available at various price points (and fizz if you’re feeling fancy!) afternoon tea at Eteaket is delicious, friendly, and affordable.

3. Red Bus Bistro

Photo: @wanderintwo

You may have seen an old vintage Routmaster bus slowly making its way around Edinburgh’s cobbled streets and if so, you’ve probably spotted the Red Bus Bistro. On this unique tour of the city, you can combine two quintessential British classics, all while taking in the beautiful sights of Edinburgh. Step onboard and enjoy fresh scones with whipped cream and jam, finger sandwiches, mini quiches, petit fours, meringues, and more, all served with as much tea and coffee as you can manage. Children are welcome too and they won’t get bored with both the treats and the views to take in!

4. The Tower Restaurant

Photo: The Tower Restaurant

Ever dreamt of enjoying a Scottish afternoon tea with panoramic views of the Castle, the Royal Mile, and the Old Town? At The Tower Restaurant, located above the National Museum of Scotland, afternoon tea has never looked better. This is the perfect place to sit back and relax after a long stroll through the museum below and is a favourite among visiting celebrities. Sandwiches, warm savoury bites, freshly baked scones and sumptuous sweets made by The Tower’s pastry chefs are just a few of the delights on offer. During the summer months, you can enjoy your tea on the rooftop terrace, overlooking the historic city skyline. Does it get any better than that?

5. Casa Angelina

Photo: @eefsvegankitchen

Last but not least on our list is one of Edinburgh’s most down-to-earth afternoon teas at Casa Angelina. Tucked away at the bottom of Broughton Street, this is a small tea room with a big personality. Their ‘vintage-style’ teas come with fun homemade foods like mini bagels and spring rolls and they carefully cater to every dietary requirement. With healthy and organic options and a full vegan menu, there really is something for everyone. Their coffees and teas are supplied by Artisan Roast and Eteaket respectively, and their food courtesy of Nonna Angelina herself, whose recipes have been passed down for generations.

For anyone feeling whimsical, they even have a dressing-up box with hats and costumes – ideal for an alternative hen do. Angelina’s is the perfect place to par-tea!

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Visiting Edinburgh with family this year?We have a home away from home waiting for you!

With a wide range of family-friendly homes available to let, Dickins has the perfect holiday home for family’s traveling with small children. We also wrote a blog post recently on what makes Edinburgh such a brilliant city to visit with children, with suggestions for places to stay and things to do. You can read it here.

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At the beginning of each month we publish a newsletter What the Dickins; A Tale of Edinburgh City which is full of great insider information and locals tips on what’s happening in Edinburgh in the month ahead.

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I have read and agree to the storage and use of my data in accordance with Dickins Edinburgh Ltd’s privacy policy. See Privacy Policy. I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time.